The Presbyterian Moderator had called on the British and Irish Governments to give all available help and support in humanitarian aid to Christian and other beleagured minorities in Iraq.

Right Rev Dr Michael Barry said “the issue at heart comes down to freedom to express religious beliefs. We continue to work in this country towards a tolerance of other religions and we would expect the same in other countries. Life is precious and it is not for us to take away from anyone. What is happening in Iraq shows no regard for humanity.”

While people may feel helpless in the situation, “we must pray for God’s help and compassion to those left heartbroken thousands of miles away.”

“Unfortunately, persecution of Christians is not unique to the country of Iraq. There are other countries in the world where people are being oppressed and killed because of their Christian faith.”

Rev Dr Barry called on Christians on this island “to pray earnestly for their brothers and sisters in Christ and other minorities that are being persecuted in Iraq. Pray also for the leaders in Iraq and other nations, that they respond to IS (Islamic State) effectively. Those suffering such horrendous treatment for their belief in the Lord Jesus Christ, wherever they are in the world, will remain in my prayers at this time.”

He said he had “read accounts of atrocities, via Canon Andrew White of Baghdad, that are too graphic for me to repeat.”